'Absolutely emotional': Jewish community reflects as antisemitism hearings end
Sections of the Jewish community have responded as the antisemitism royal commission begins its toughest work yet.
The final hearing of the antisemitism royal commission saw the Jewish community come together in an embrace, with emotions running high. Simone Abel, head of legal for the Executive Counsel of Australian Jewry, expressed that the inquiry had been a significant moment in time, with attendees pouring their hearts, souls, and heads into the process.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion had heard testimony from over 340 witnesses over 62 days, following the terror attack on Bondi Beach that killed 15 and injured dozens during Hanukkah celebrations.
Despite the closed-door sessions, survivors and their loved ones were always in the forefront of everyone's minds. Ms. Abel recalled standing at the memorial with survivors just days before the hearing, acknowledging the ongoing pain and suffering. She expressed optimism for the future, hoping for reform that would create a more connected and inclusive society.
Ms. Abel and her friend Tahli Blicblau, who also testified before the commission, paid tribute to those who had bravely testified. Ms. Blicblau emphasized the courage and importance of their efforts. ECAJ co-CEO Peter Wertheim testified multiple times, expressing shock at the extent and severity of antisemitism he had heard. He spoke of a renewed determination within the Jewish community to bring the country back to its harmonious and stable past.
The commission also heard about the Shalom Collective, a non-profit organization supporting Jewish Australians in the arts and broader community. Robert Samuel, CEO of the Shalom Collective, expressed hope for recommendations that would eliminate violence and hatred directed towards Jewish Australians. Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio, head of Emanuel Synagogue, praised the brave witnesses and expressed hope for the commission to address the root causes of antisemitism.
The final witness, Holocaust survivor Nina Bassat, recalled the shock of the antisemitism she witnessed in Australia following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. Despite the tragedy, she remains hopeful for the future, crediting the commission's sensitivity and kindness for providing a cathartic experience for the community.
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